Simon Crean dies, aged 74: ex-Labor Party leader was visiting Europe for trade and business

Ex-Labor Party leader Simon Crean suddenly dies, aged 74, while visiting Europe for trade and business meetings

  • Ex-Labor leader Simon Crean has died, aged 74

Former Labor leader and federal government minister Simon Crean has died, aged 74, while visiting Europe. 

Mr Crean was in Germany for business and trade meetings when he reportedly died on Sunday. 

He was a key figure in the Labor party and union movement during his illustrious political career.

He was the leader of the Labor party and the leader of the opposition from 2001 to 2003 and served as a cabinet minister under the Hawke, Keating, Rudd and Gillard governments.

Political and media figures alike have shared tributes to the Labor party heavyweight.

Former Labor leader Simon Crean (pictured) has died aged 74 while visiting Europe for business and trade meetings

‘Such terrible news about Simon Crean,’ Labor MP Julian HIll wrote on Twitter.

‘Former Labor Leader, trade unionist and giant of our movement.’

Opposition leader Peter Dutton said: ‘Shocked and saddened to hear of Simon Crean’s passing.’

‘Simon was a gentleman to deal with and a giant of the Labor movement.’

‘I always admired Simon for his intellect and decency and only saw him recently in Melbourne.’

‘I’m shocked by the news of Simon Crean’s death. Far too young,’ former Labor MP Joel Fitzgibbon posted.

‘A good and talented guy, history will treat him kindly.’ 

More to come 

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